Thursday, August 26, 2010

Staying safe while crossing the street is the responsibility of both pedestrians and drivers. As Fall approaches and daylight hours shorten, the danger of being involved in a pedestrian collision increases. The following advice will help you stay safe:

Myth: A green light means that it is safe to cross.

Fact: A green light or pedestrian walk signal means that crossing is allowed. But, to be safe, first stop and look for cars. Before stepping off the curb, look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT. When it is safe to cross, continue looking left and right. Be especially alert for vehicles making a right turn on red.

Myth: You are safe in a crosswalk.

Fact: Before crossing in a crosswalk, stop at the curb and look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT for cars. When it is clear, cross and keep looking left and right.

Myth: If you see the driver, the driver sees you.

Fact: The driver may not see you. Make certain the driver sees you and stops before you cross in front of the car. Try to make eye contact with the driver.

Myth: The driver will stop if you are in a crosswalk, at a green light or a pedestrian walk signal.

Fact: The driver may not see you. The driver’s view may be blocked. The driver may run a traffic light illegally. The driver may turn without looking for pedestrians.

Myth: Wearing white at night makes you visible to drivers.

Fact: Even if pedestrians wear white clothes, drivers will have a difficult time seeing them at night. Carry a flashlight. Wear retro-reflective clothing. Walk facing traffic.

The street is a danger zone. Remember, when crossing a street always:

Stop at the edge of parked cars, the curb, or other vehicles.

Look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT for moving cars.

Cross when clear, and keep looking left and right.

Walk, don’t run or dart, into the street.

Look for signs that a car is about to move (rear lights, exhaust smoke, sound of motor, wheels turning).